Definition of "venal" in 英语

adjective

1. (rare, archaic) Venous; pertaining to veins.

adjective

1. (archaic) For sale; available for purchase.

2. Of a position, privilege etc.: available for purchase rather than assigned on merit.

3. Capable of being bought (of a person); willing to take bribes.

4. (of behaviour etc.) Corrupt, mercenary.

   • Though there is a disposition in mankind, to declaim against the corruption and peculation of the present times, as being more venal than formerly; yet, if we look back to different periods, we shall find statesmen and politicians, as selfish and corrupt, […] as those who have lately figured on the political stage.